§ Mr. BettsTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what financial effect there has been from the recent review on the level of the social fund available in 1992–93 to those social security offices which serve people in the Sheffield, Attercliffe constituency.
§ Mr. ScottDetails of the allocations made to individual Benefits Agency districts are available in the Library.
§ Mr. MeacherTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how long it is taking social fund inspectors to deal with an application for review of a decision made by a social fund officer; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ScottI am informed by the social fund commissioner that the average time taken is 38 working days. This figure includes the two weeks allowed for the applicant to comment on the papers which are sent to him. The majority of urgent cases are cleared within four working days.